Overview
- An international, pragmatic randomized trial across 44 hospitals randomized 1,600 patients aged 65+ to dual‑mobility total hip replacement (DM‑THR) or standard cups and reported results in The Lancet.
- The DM‑THR group had a 70% lower relative risk of hip dislocation at one year, with dislocation rates of 1.3% versus 4.2% for standard cups.
- Overall surgical complications were lower with DM‑THR but there were no differences between groups in implant infection, one‑year mortality, or patient‑reported quality of life.
- Dual‑mobility implants use a small femoral head captured inside a larger polyethylene head to increase joint stability, and researchers say no new technology or surgeon training is required for use.
- If the forthcoming cost‑effectiveness analysis shows reduced complications offset higher upfront implant prices, hospitals may change procurement and practice, which could cut emergency reoperations and readmissions for displaced femoral neck fractures.